Visceral Fat Calculator

Visceral fat is fat stored deep in the abdomen, surrounding internal organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines. Unlike subcutaneous fat (under the skin), visceral fat is metabolically active and secretes hormones and inflammatory compounds linked to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

The gold standard is CT scan or MRI, which directly image fat compartments. For practical purposes, waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio are validated proxy measures that correlate well with visceral fat levels and are used in clinical risk assessment by the NIH and WHO.

The NIH defines high risk at a waist circumference above 40 inches (102 cm) for men and above 35 inches (88 cm) for women. These thresholds are associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes.

Yes. Visceral fat responds well to caloric restriction and aerobic exercise. Studies show that even modest weight loss (5-10% of body weight) can significantly reduce visceral fat. A combination of diet, aerobic exercise, and resistance training is most effective.

Subcutaneous fat is found just under the skin (the fat you can pinch). Visceral fat surrounds abdominal organs. Visceral fat is metabolically more dangerous because it is more insulin-resistant and produces more inflammatory cytokines, contributing to systemic inflammation and metabolic disease.